Bridge Shelter named Enterprise Zone Project

The Bridge Emergency Shelter in Cortez has been approved as an Enterprise Zone Contribution Project by the Colorado Economic Development Commission (EDC) on November 8. This designation allows all donor contributions of $100 or more for this project eligible for a 25 percent state tax credit on cash donations, and a 12.5 percent state tax credit on in-kind donations.

The Bridge Emergency Shelter provides overnight shelter for the homeless during the winter months as well as job referral and training services. The shelter also provides a safe space for intoxicated individuals because historically alcohol consumption and cold temperatures have led to several fatalities each winter. Currently 30 projects are designated in Southwest Colorado.

In 1986, the Colorado State Legislature approved the Enterprise Zone Tax Credit program to assist economically distressed areas of the state. In Southwest Colorado, all of Montezuma, Archuleta, San Juan, and Dolores Counties are designated enterprise zone areas. La Plata County has some areas that are not considered distressed, and thus not included.

A list of eligible Enterprise Zone projects and program information is available at www.scan.org or by calling the Region 9 Economic Development District at 247-9621.